Exploring the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains: A 3-Day Nature and Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Blue Ridge Discovery

Asheville, North Carolina on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Early Girl Eatery

Enjoy a farm-to-table Southern breakfast with locally sourced ingredients, setting a hearty start to your day.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Drive along Blue Ridge Parkway

Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, known for its breathtaking mountain views and abundant photo opportunities.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Tupelo Honey

Savor Southern cuisine with a modern twist at this popular Asheville eatery, famous for its shrimp and grits.
USD25, 1h

2:30pm

Visit the North Carolina Arboretum

Explore beautifully maintained gardens and nature trails that showcase native plants and mountain landscapes.
USD16, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Curate

Enjoy authentic Spanish tapas in a stylish setting, perfect to wind down after a day of outdoor exploration.
USD40, 1.5h
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Day 2: Smoky Mountain Adventure

Gatlinburg, Tennessee on May 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start early with a wide variety of pancakes, a Gatlinburg staple famous for its long lines and tasty dishes.
USD12, 1h

9:00am

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Hike

Hike the Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte, enjoying spectacular views and diverse flora along the way.
Free, 5h

2:30pm

Lunch at The Park Grill

Refuel with hearty Appalachian-inspired dishes in a rustic mountain lodge atmosphere.
USD20, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Gatlinburg Parkway

Walk the lively Gatlinburg Parkway lined with shops, galleries, and local artisan crafts.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Cherokee Grill

Dine on wood-fired steaks and fresh seafood in a cozy, upscale environment to cap off your day.
USD35, 1.5h
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Day 3: Cultural & Clingmans Dome

Cherokee and Great Smoky Mountains National Park on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bell's Restaurant in Cherokee

Enjoy a classic Southern breakfast in the heart of Cherokee, known for its friendly service and hearty portions.
USD10, 1h

9:00am

Visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Learn about the history and culture of the Cherokee people through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
USD10, 2h

11:30am

Drive to Clingmans Dome

Travel to the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for a panoramic mountain view from the observation tower.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Picnic Lunch at Clingmans Dome Picnic Area

Enjoy a packed lunch amid picturesque surroundings, taking in the fresh mountain air.
Personal expense, 1h

2:00pm

Hike to Andrews Bald

Take an accessible trail from Clingmans Dome parking area to enjoy wildflower meadows and scenic mountain vistas.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Asheville

Drive back to Asheville, concluding your mountain adventures.
Fuel cost, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Market Place

Celebrate the end of your trip with a farm-to-table dinner featuring local ingredients and creative dishes.
USD40, 1.5h
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